Greetings all,

Unfortunately, cases in Oregon continue to climb statewide, placing increased stress on local hospitals and medical clinics, particularly in smaller, rural areas such as Bend-Redmond. The link below contains a video clip of the St. Charles medical center, the primary hospital in the Bend area, and the challenges that it is experiencing.

https://www.kgw.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/oregon-outdoor-mask-mandate/283-430fa4ad-9e2b-4bbe-a00d-54358c2bdac1

As a result of these challenges - the State of Oregon has enacted a new mandate - requiring masks outdoors as well as indoors when there are people present that are not a part of your direct household, and social distancing cannot/will not be maintained. This requirement is similar to the indoor mask mandate (which continues to be in place), in that it applies both to vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and is not applicable in certain circumstances. This state mandate goes into effect August 27th. 

As mentioned before - while there is a VERY remote possibility that it will be lifted by the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, based on rhetoric and increasing case loads in the state, I see that as being something that is VERY unlikely. If you are planning to attend the Feast of Tabernacles in Bend-Redmond, please anticipate needing to wear a mask both indoors, as well as outdoors in many circumstances. 

If you have specific questions, please feel free to reach out. 

Respectfully,
Benjamin Light

Festival Coordinator - Bend-Redmond, Oregon